Automatic cutting device



April 24, 1951 5 (mm 2,550,191

AUTOMATIC CUTTING DEVICE Filed March 12, 1947 6 Sheets-Sheet l N In 74 I2 56 37 me e INVENTOR EDMOND GODAT ATTORNEY CUM/01965550 0/? JUPP! Y April 24, 1951 I GODAT 2,550,191

AUTOMATIC CUTTING DEVICE April 24, 1951 E. GODAT AUTOMATIC CUTTING DEVICE 6 Sheets-Sheet 3 Filed March 12, 1947 INVENTOR EDMOND GODAT pifww ATTORNEY April 24, 1951 E. GODAT AUTOMATIC CUTTING DEVICE 6 Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed March 12, 1947 INVENTOR EDMOND GODAT BY Q WATTORNEY April 24, 1951 E. GODAT AUTOMATIC CUTTING DEVICE Filed March 12, 1947 6 Sheets-Sheet 5 INVENTOR EDMOND GODAT ATTORNEY Patented Apr. 24, 1951 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE AUTOMATIC CUTTING DEVICE Edmond Godat, Los Angeles, Calif United States Rubber Company,

assignor to New York,

27 Claims. I

This invention relates to an automatic cutting device and in particular it relates to a device for measuring and cutting a length of strip stock. More particularly, the invention relates to an apparatus for measuring and skiving a slab of tread stock used in the manufacture of pneumatic tires.

In the manufacture of pneumatic tires, it is customary to extrude in a continuous length a strip of tread stock formed of a rubber or synthetic rubber composition. This stock is cut to proper length by a skiving operation which produces a cut at a diagonal, relative to the thickness of the tread stock for the purpose of splicin and knitting the ends of the tread together to form an annular band.

In order to obtain proper tire balance and to otherwise maintain pneumatic tires within definite specifications, it is essential that the length of the tread slab be cut to a definite and accurate length. It is also desirable to so design the apparatus that it effects the tread cutting while the tread stock is moving continuously on a conveyor.

In general, the invention comprises a conveyor for moving a strip of tread stock in a continuous path, a carriage capable of movement with the conveyor for a predetermined distance, means for actuating movement of the carriage, means for positioning a motor operated knife in relative association with the tread slab, means to traverse the knife to sever the material, and measuring means for measuring the tread slab in an accurate predetermined length.

Among the objects of my invention are to provide an automatic tread-cutting device capable of accurately and efiiciently severing a length of tread slab while the tread moves continuously with a conveyor; to provide a tread cutting device which likewise moves along with the moving tread in a constant position relative thereto during a cutting cycle; to provide a cutting device which may be easily and accurately adjusted by means of an indicator arm operating in combination with a calibrated dial, and to provide an automatic tread cutting device of the character described which, as manufactured, is efiicient and economical. These and other objects and advantages will appear more fully in the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a plan View of an apparatus forming an embodiment of my invention;

Figure 2 is a side elevational view thereof, partly broken away and partly in section;

Figure 3 is a side elevational view illustrating the opposite side of the apparatus;

Figure 4 is a transverse view in section taken along lines IVIV of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a detailed view of a measuring device partly in section taken along lines V-V of Figure 2;

Figure 6 is a plan view of the measuring de vice as shown in Figure 5 illustrating a portion of the interior of the device in section;

Figure '7 is a detailed view in section taken along lines VIIV1I of Figure 1 illustrating a change gear mechanism;

Figure 8 is a perspective view in section of a length of tread slab;

Figure 9 is'a view in section of a motor operated cutter disk taken along lines IX-IX of Figure 2; and

Figure 10 is a schematic view showing part of the cutting device with the associated electrical operating circuit.

With reference to the drawings and in particular to Figures 1 and 2, I show an embodiment of my invention in the form of an automatic tread cutting device comprising essentially a belt type conveyor l operating over a roller 2 and supported by the structural frame work 3 in combination with a carriage 4 and a measuring device 5 positioned in functional relationship with the conveyor. The conveyor operates continuously and is adapted to carry a continuous length of tread stock 6. While I show and describe a strip of tread stock 6, it is to be understood that the apparatus herein described is applicable for measuring and cutting to proper length various other strip stock materials.

Positioned on each side of the conveyor is a rail 1 adapted to support the carriage 4. Essentially, the frame of the carriage comprises side plates 8 and 9 retained in spaced relationship by structural cross members Ill, II, I2 and angle 20. There are two sets of wheels I3, I4 and I5, I6 at opposite ends of the carriage although only one set is shown. The carriage 4 is supported by Wheels l3 and I4 and side thrust wheels I5 and I6 (Figure 4).

Associated with the carriage 4 is a secondary carriage I! which is movable transversely of the carriage 4. The secondary carriage I1 comprises a frame l8 slidably supported on a shaft I9 retained between side plates 8 and 9. The carriage I I is additionally supported on the structural angle 20 also attached to the side plates 8 and 9. Rollers 22 and 23 are attached to the frame l8 and ride on opposite sides of the angle 28. The principal purpose of the secondary carriage ll is to provide a support for a motor 24 which drives a cutter disk 25. The motor 24 is supported by a plate 26 which, in turn, is retained in slide ways 21 and 28 attached to the frame l8. In order to position the motor so that the cutter disk is in cutting relationship with the tread slab 6, an air cylinder 25 is provided which is attached to the frame [8 with a piston rod 30 connecting to the plate 25. By this arrangement the cutter disk 25 may be moved into or out of cutting engagement with the tread 6.

Means are provided for moving the secondary carriage I! transversely of the tread slab 5. This means comprises essentially a threaded rod 3i supported at each end by the side plates 8 and 9. By means of a reversible motor 32 supported by the frame work of the carriage 4 and connected to the threaded rod 31 through pulleys 33 and 34 and a belt 35, the threaded rod 3! is caused to rotate. An internally threaded block 35 has complementary engagement with the threaded rod 3i. The block 35 is attached to the frame l8. By this arrangement rotary movement of the rod 3i causes the carriage E1 to move transversely of the tread slab 5. Return movement of the carriage I1 is caused by a reverse rotation of the rod 31 coupled with the reversible motor The extent of the transverse movement of the carriage I? is controlled by means of self-acting limit switches 31 and 38 adjustably mounted on a bar 33 supported by the side plates iections 4 0 and 4| (see Figs. 1 and 2) extending from the frame l8 are engageable with the limit switches 31 and 38 respectively for controlling the motor 32. In the operation of the carriage if, as shown in Figure l, the cylinder 29 is actuated by means of a control valve 42 having an air valve 42 and an operating solenoid 42 which is energized by means hereinafter described. This causes the piston rod 35 to be extended, thus moving the knife disk 25 into cutting position relative to the tread slab 6. The knife 25 is rotating continuously throughout the operation. As the cutter 25 moves into cutting position, a lug 43'projecting from the plate 26 engages an electrical switch 44, which starts operation of the motor 32. This, in turn, causes the carriage 11 to move transversely of the tread slab 6. At the end of the transverse movement of the carriage i1, the projection" 4!] actuates the limit switch 31 which, in turn, stops the motor 3?. and deenergizes the solenoid 42 causing the piston 30 to recede in the cylinder 29. This operation moves the cutter 25 out of cutting position with the tread slab 6. At the end of the receding stroke of the piston rod 34, the lug 43 engages with a switch which causes the motor 32 to reverse its direction of rotation causing the carriage to return to its original position. Upon reaching the end of the return movement of the carriage H, the projection 4| engages the limit switch 38 which stops operation of the motor 32. Even though limit switch 38 is operated to stop reverse operation of motor 32 when carriage 11 returns, nevertheless the motor can be again energized to start a cutting cycle through aseparate parallel current supply circuit controlled by actuation of switch 44. The interaction between switches 35 and 44 will be more fully explained hereinafter in connection with the wiring diagram of Fig. 10. Thus the tread cutting unit completes 8 and 9. Proa cycle of operation and remains in an inactive state until again energized by means hereinafter described.

In cutting different width treads, the distance of the transverse movement of the carriage 11 should be variable in accordance with the different width treads. Since a cycle of operation includes the return transverse movement of the cutter, it is desirable to limit the transverse movement of the cutter to a distance sufficient only to cut the tread slab. This permits the cutter to return more quickly so as to be ready for another cutting operation, thereby permitting shorter lengths of stock to be out. To accomplish control of the transverse movement of the carriage I1, I provide a rod 45 having right and left hand threads at opposite ends which engage lugs 41 and 48 having internal threads. The limit switch 3! is attached to the lug 41 and the limit switch 38 is attached to the lug 48. The arrangement is such that rotary movement of the threaded rod 46 will move the limit switches 31 and 38 in opposite directions transversely of the tread slab 6 in slidable relation along the bar 39'. The threaded rod 45 is supported by the side plates 8 and 9, and a hand crank 49 attached to the threaded rod 46 permits manual rotation thereof.

As shown in Figure l, the conveyor is driven by a sprocket 50 which, in turn, is connected by a chain 5! to a source of power (not shown). A shaft 52 on which the sprocket 50 is keyed also supports sprockets 53 positioned at each end of the shaft for supporting carriage 4 drive chains 54. Sprockets 53 are of substantially the same radius as the roller 2 plus the thickness of the conveyor belt 2 so that the surface speeds of the chains 54 and belt I are substantially equal. The chains 54 at their opposite ends are supported by sprockets 55 (Figs. 2 and 3) associated with the frame 3. Meshing with the top side of each chain 54 is a sprocket 56 (Figure 2) keyed to a shaft 51 supported by the side plates 8 and 9. Idler sprockets 58 and 59 rotatably supported by the carriage 4 insure proper meshing engagement of the sprocket 56 with the chain 54. While the sprocket 56 normally rotates as an idler relative to the chain 54, means are provided in the form of a magnetic clutch 60 (Figure 4) for preventing rotation of the shaft 51 and consequently locking the sprockets 55 with the chains 54. I As a result of the locking of the sprocket and chain, the entire carriage 4 moves along with the conveyor belt and at the same rate of speed since, as already mentioned, the surface speeds of the belt and chain are equal. The tread 5 is transversely severed during the movement of the carriage 4. The magnetic clutch 60 is energized by means hereinafter described.

In cutting treads for pneumatic tires, it is customary to cut the treads diagonally relative to the thickness of the material so that as the ends of the tread are joined together they will overlap in part for facilitating splicing. Usually this operation of cutting the treads on a diagonal is referred to as skiving. In performing the cutting operation in the present invention, it is desirable to raise the tread from the top of the conveyor belt in order to facilitate cutting. This is accomplished by providing a bar 6! (Figure 2) extending transversely of the conveyor and attached to the carriage 4. A second tread support 52, also attached to the carriage 4, is positioned in spaced relation with the bar 5|. The space between thebar 5i and the support62 provides an opening for clearance of the knife 5 blade 25 While it severe the tread. A roller 63' located adjacent to the bar 6| functions to assist movement of the tread 6 over the bar 6| and facilitates retracting movement of the carriage 4 relative to the tread 6.

As a further means of facilitating the cutting operatiomwater is used for lubricating the rotating knife blade 25. As shown particularly in Figure 9, a shaft 64, which extends through the motor 26, is provided with a channel 65 communicating at its lower end with radial apertures 66. A flange 67 keyed to the shaft 64 cooperates with a nut flange 68 for retaining the blade 25 in clamping position relative to the shaft 64. Radial grooves 69 and T at the face of the flanges 61 and 68 respectively communicate with the radial apertures 66 and thus with the channel 65. A conduit II joins with the channel 65 and communicates with a source of water supply. By this arrangement, water which enters the channel 65 passes through the grooves 69 and III and is thrown out by centrifugal force along the sur-- face of the knife disk 25 to form a lubricating surface thereon.

While advance movement of the carriage 4 is caused by locking of the carriage l with the constantly moving chains 54, means are provided in the form of a pair of air cylinders I2 and I3 for returning the carriage to its original position. The air cylinders l2 and 13 are positioned on each side of the conveyor I and are supported by the structural members 3 of the conveyor frame. As the carriage 4 moves along with the conveyor, the cylinders I2 and I3 are open to the atmosphere allowing the piston rods It and I5 to become extended in accordance with the movement of the carriage The cylinders 72 and I3 are actuated to return the carriage i to its original position after the cutting cycle has been completed. The actual cutting cycle is completed when the cutter disk moves out of engagement with the tread 6, and when the switch (Figure l) is actuated to reverse the motor 32. Switch 31, previously referred to, also functions to cause the cylinders 12 and F3 to move the carriage 4 back to its original position. The switch 67 opcrates solenoid 76 (Figures 1 and 3) Which in turn operates air valve I6 to admit air under pressure to the air cylinders 12 and I3 to move the carriage 4 back to its original position.

When the carriage 4 is returned to its original position, a cam arm I? attached to the frame of the carriage t engages with a limit switch I8 which, in turn, deenergizes solenoid 76 to reverse the action of the air valve I6 for releasing the air in the cylinders I2 and I3. This places the cylinders in condition for repeating a similar cycle of operation.

Means for initiating movement of the carriage 4 and means for determining a length of the tread slab are controlled by a timing or measuring unit I6, as shown in particular in Figures 5, 6, and 7. In general, the measuring unit comprises a housing 86 attached to the structural frame 3, and a control box 8I attached to the housing Bil. Included with the control box 8| is a front face or dial 62 with which an indicator arm 83, keyed to a central shaft 84, cooperates. The dial 82 includes calibrations indicative of the length of a tread slab and the pointer arm 83 registers with the calibrations for the purpose of indicating the length of the tread slab. Within the control box BI and keyed to the shaft 84- is a cam arm 85 which is movable with the pointer 83 for the purpose of actuating electrical means for controlling the initial cutting operation. In cooperation with the cam arm is an electrical switch 86 supported by an arm 81 attached to a sleeve 83 rotatably positioned over the shaft 84. Also attached to the sleeve 88 and in front of the dial face 82 is a control arm 89 which may be manually positioned relative to the dial calibrations and which determines the position of the switch 86 for controlling the length of the tread slab 6. The control arm 89 includes a manually operated clamping nut 96 for securing the control arm 89 in a fixed but adjustable position relative to the dial 82.

In order to provide an electrical path to the rotatable switch 86, a brush and commutator is provided within the control box BI. Essentially this comprises a disk of electrically insulated material 9| attached to the inner face of the dial 82 and having spaced metallic rings 92 and 93 fixed thereto for the purpose of functioning as electrical terminals. In cooperation with the rings 92 and 93 are spring retained brushes 94 and 96 supported by a bracket 86 attached to the arm 87. Conventional wiring (not shown) joins the brushes 94 and with the switch 86.

The measuring unit "I9 is driven from the main conveyor by means of a sprocket 91 keyed to the conveyor drive (see Figs. 2 and 6), a chain 98 and a sprocket 99 supported by a shaft I00 mounted in the housing 86. Within the housing 80, the central shaft 84 is driven by means of a train of gears I BI and I62 selectably engageable with gears I I13 and I04 respectively. The gears I03 and I 64 are keyed to a shaft I65 and also keyed to the same shaft are gears I66 and IIITI. Gear I66 meshes with a gear I68 rotatably supported by the shaft 64. The gear I67 meshes with an idler reverse gear I09 which, in turn, meshes with a gear I III rotatably mounted on the shaft 84. A double faced clutch unit I II slidably keyed to the shaft 84 is cooperable with the faces of the gears I68 and III] for selectively coupling movement of either of said gears with the shaft 84.

The clutch unit I I I is operated by means which includes an arm II2 freely rotatable on a shaft I I2**. A set collar I I 2 holds the shaft in position. An inner arm H2 is keyed to the shaft II2 and cooperates and moves with the arm II2 through a spring connection II2 best shown in Fig. 5. The springs provide a lost motion connection between the arms H2 and H2 and permit the arm II2 to be centered with respect to the arm II2. Two arms I I2 are likewise keyed to the shaft HP and pivot back and forth as the shaft rotates to move the clutch mechanism into and out of engagement with the gears I08 and III]. A link II3 connects the end of arm I I2 to a lever II2 which is fulcrumed on pin 2 shown in Fig. 6. Links I I4 connect opposite ends of the lever I It" to solenoids H5 and I I6 (see Figs. 2 and 5). Since the solenoids are located on opposite sides of the pivot I I2 they are operable to move the lever II2 up and down which movement is transmitted to the arm IIZ by the link I I3. Movement of arm I I 2, in turn, is transmitted to the arm I I2 by means of the spring connection IIZ so that arm II'Z pivots to move the clutch into engagement with either one of the gears I08 and III!. For example, if the arm I I2 moves upwardly, in the showing of Fig. 5, the spring connection II2 will transmit the movement to arm II2 to move arm II2 to the left so that the clutch mechanism engages gear lit, in the showing of Fig. 6. An advantage of the i spring connection II2 is that it returns the arm I I2 and consequently the clutch mechanism to a neutral position when neither one of the solenoids i's'energized. Energization of either of the solenoids I I or I It causes operation of the clutch unit II2 to drive the shaft 84 in a forward or reversed direction for a purpose to be described later.

The purpose of the dual gears IGI and I62 (Fig.

7) is merely to permit a change in ratio of the gears for driving the shaft 84 at variable speeds in order to increase the movement of the pointer 63 for relatively short treads 6. It was found in cutting short length treads that the back lash in the gears created a slight error in the cut length. By positioning the control arm 89 around the dial 82 twice the distance ordinarily necessary, and

by increasing the speed correspondingly the degree of error is considerably reduced.

In Figure 6, the gears Ill-I and I02 are illustrated for the purpose of clarity in a disengaged position although normally they are in engagement with either one of the gears I03 and I04. A manual knob Iii" (Figure '7') is" axially moved for positioning the gears HM and I02 into meshing sition switch 86 determines the length of the tread slab. Switch I2I is set at the zero position on the dial. In the operation of the timing mechanism, the control arm 89 is rotated to the desired position relative to the zero calibration on dial $2 for selectably predetermining the length of a tread slab. This movement of the control arm 89 functions to position the switch 86 in proper spacedrelationship with the switch I2I. When either one of the solenoids H5 or IIB'is energized, in a manner to be described later, the cam arm 85 oscillates back and forth to actuate the switches 86 or I2I. For example, if the solenoid I25, energized, the clutch I I i will engage with the gear I58 for driving the shaft 84. The cam arm 85 which iskeyed to the shaft 84-, in its path of rotation, will move from switch I'ii to switch so as to close the circuit therein.

When either switch IN or 86 is energized, a"

solenoid I22 (Figure 3) is actuatedfor releasing alatch I23 to permit rotation of a conventional Hillard single revolution clutch I24. The clutch I24 is mounted'on a shaft I25 which supports the continuously rotating sprocket 55. Arms I25 associated with the clutch I24 move with the clu ch I24 and engage brackets I21 projecting from opposite sides of the carriage 4: result of this engagement; the carriage 4 begins to advance in the direction of the moving conveyor I. As the arm I26 continues" its rotary movement it engages a switch I28 which energizes the magnetic clutch fifl'which, in turn; locks the sprocket 56 with the chain 54, thus causing the carriage 4 to thereafter move along with the movement of the chain 54'. The' clutch 80 is released to permit return of the carriage a through actuation of the switch 31 which limits the transverse movement of the secondary carriage H. The single revolution clutch I24 Asa 8. looks in at zero loading and the arms I25 accelerate the carriage l from zero to belt speed in one quarter revolution resulting in the magnetic clutch 6G likewise locking in at zero loading. This operation reduces the possibility of slippage, which would normally occur if the load were applied instantly, and produces greater accuracy in the length of the cut tread slab. The switch I28 which energizes the magnetic clutch fiIl sim'ultaneously energizes the solenoid 42 of the air control valve 42 for initiating the cutting cycle operation as hereinbefore described.

As mentioned in the preceding paragraph, an important advantage of the invention is that both the single revolution clutch I24 and the magnetic clutch 60 drop in at zero load so that it is possible to cut the lengths of tread accurately and quickly irrespective of the speed of the'conveyor and irrespective of variations in the size and thickness of the tread to be cut. When the clutch I24 drops in, the arms I26 are in the horizontal position; consequently, there is no load on the clutch. The arms I26 accelerate the carriage 4 from zero to conveyor belt speed in one-quarter of a revolution. It has previously been pointed out that the surface speed of the chains 54 equals the surface speed of the conveyor belt. Inasmuch as the radius of the arm I26 is substantially equal to the radius of the sprocket 55 then at the top vertical position or" the arm I26 the carriage will be travelling at the speed of the conveyor belt. Thus the mction of the carriage 4 has been accelerated from zero to full conveyor belt speed in onequarter of a revolution. The magnetic clutch Gil is energized at this point and locks in at no load since the carriage is moving at belt speed. If either of the two clutches dropped in under partly or fully loaded condition, a variable slippage factor might be introduced which would make the cut lengths of the tread vary consicerably.

The general operation of the automatic cutting machine may be summarized briefly as fol-' lows: The circuit is energized and the pointer 83m oved to zero position so that cam arm 85 actuates the switch I2I. This closes the circuit to solenoid $22 which releases the single revolution clutch I24 so that the arm I26 initiates movement of the carriage 4 in synchronism with movement of the conveyor belt. When the clutch arm 25 reaches a substantially vertical position it actuates the switch I23 to operate solenoid 6B. This locks the gears 56 in engagem'ent with the chain 54 so that movement of carriage is now taken up directly through the medium of these gears and chains. Simultaneously, switch I28 actuates the solenoid 42 so that the control valve 42 admits air to the chamber 29. This causes the plunger carrying the rotating cutting disk 25 to move downwardly to a point alongside the tread 6. Arm 43 carried by the plunger now closes the switch 44 which energizes the motor 32 to drive the frame I'I transversely of the carriage 4.

During this time, as the carriage 4 and tread G are being moved in synchronism with the conveyor, the rotating cutting knife 25 makes a beveled cut through the tread 6. After completion of the out the stop 40 on the carriage I'I actuates the switch 3'! to stop forward operation of the motor 32. Actuation of the switch 3': also de'energizes the solenoid 42 so that the cutter blade is drawn back by the fluid in cylinder ZS'acting on the piston 30; at thesametime operation of the switch 31 deenergizes solenoid clutch 60 to release the gears 56 from engagement with the chains 54 and operates solenoid 16 to admit air to the chambers I2 and 13 to return the carriage 4 to its initial position. When the cutter blade is retracted arm 43 actuates switch 45 to initiate reverse operation of motor 32. Motor 32 then traverses the frame I? and cutter blade back to its initial position without making a cut. When the carriage reaches its initial position the arm 'II closes the switch I8 which, in turn, de-energizes the solenoid 16 to release air pressure from the chambers I2 and I3.

During the time necessary for this sequence of operations to take place, the cam arm 85 and pointer 83 are being driven around the dial by means of the gear mechanism in the timer until arm 85 reaches the switch 85 which has been preset along the dial to any chosen position. When switch 86 is operated the sequence of operation is repeated, the cam arm 35 now being driven in a reversed direction by the clutch mechanism until it again reaches the switch I2I. Thus the cam arm 35 and pointer 83 oscillate or swing back and forth between the switches I2I and 85; they initiate a cutting operation each time arm 85 engages either the switch 86 or the switch I 2 I. In this way the length of the cut tread is determined by the length of the are through which the arm 85 travels as it oscillates back and forth between the two switches.

Turning now to Fig. 10 of the drawing, the electrical circuit for operating the various switches and parts of the apparatus has been illustrated in an elementary diagram. In the description thus far, only the main operating switches have been identified with a View to explaining the various functions of the cutting machine and the manner in which it operates. However, Fig. 10 illustrates a suitable electrical circuit for controlling the operation of the machine. In Fig. 10, the relays and switches have been shown in their normal or de-energized position.

The upper portion of the wiring diagram of Fig. 10 illustrates what may be termed a control circuit including the timer or measuring mechanism and which is supplied with 110 volt A. C. from power lines I35] and I 3|. The center portion of the diagram illustrates a power circuit for the motors and which utilizes 440 volt A. C. received from supply lines I 32 and I 33. At the bottom of the diagram are illustrated 230 volt D. C. power lines I34 and I35 for energizing clutch 58.

Referring to the upper part of Fig. 10, the timer control circuit is energized by momentarily closing the manual Start switch I35 which energizes the coil of relay I31 through a normally closed Manual cutting switch IQI, normally closed Stop switch I89 and conductor Ifiil; this picks up the contacts I3! to form a holding circuit around the switch I35 so that the relay I? is energized during the period of operation of the machine. The other contacts I37 of the relay close the circuit to an auxiliary power supply line I393. The timer control circuit is now energized through line I38 for controlling the operation of the cutting machine upon proper positioning of the pointer 63 and cam arm 85.

It is assumed that the control arm 39 and switch 8E3 have been preset to a position along the dial 82 in accordance with the length of tread to be cut. When the cam arm 35 is positioned to momentarily close switch IZI, it completes a circuit through conductors I 39 and I46 to a relay III at the same time, a circuit is completed to a relay I42 through a conductor M3. When relay I 4| picks up it closes its normally opened contacts MI to complete a circuit through conductors I III to a holding relay I 55. In turn, relay I picks up its contacts I I5 to form a holding circuit for the relay coil through conductor I 55, normally closed contacts I83 and conductor I41. The purpose of this holding circuit is to keep relay I55 energized when contacts I II drop out upon de-energization of relay I II when switch IZI returns to open position. Energization of relay I55 likewise closes contacts I 45 to complete a circuit through conductors I48 and I49 to the solenoid I I5. As already mentioned, when solenoid H5 is energized it operates the clutch mechanism in the timer 5 through the arm II2 and link I III to cause the cam arm 85 and pointer 83 to leave the zero position, in engagement with switch I2I, and travel around the dial to a position such that they engage switch 256.- During this interval of travel, the tread cutting operation is completed and the mechanism reset in a manner now to be described.

In the power circuit a switch Hill is closed .to energize an auxiliary supply circuit I5I and the cutter motor 2 5. This motor operates continuously during operation of the cutting machine. When relay I II in the timer control circuit is momentarily energized by closing of switch IZI, its contacts IIII located in the power supply circuit are closed to energize the solenoid I22 of the single revolution clutch I24; current flows from supply line I5! through a conductor I52, closed contacts I II", the normally closed contacts of twitch M. on the cutter frame, the contacts of switch which have been closed by the carriage d in its initial position, the contacts of switch '38 which have been closed by-the lug II on frame II when the frame is in its initial position, and thence through the solenoid I 22 to the other supply line I35. The solenoid I22 then retracts the latching pin I25 to start operation of the single revolution clutch I24. As formerly stated, the clutch acts to start the carriage II on its movement with the conveyor before the clutch 58 locks in. Since the contacts I II are closed momentarily the pin IE3 is withdrawn momentarily and is then released to stop operation of the clutch after a single revolution. As the arm I25 rotates to start movement of the carriage I it reaches a vertical position where it closes the switch I28 carried by the carriage.

When switch I23 is momentarily closed it energizes a holding relay I53 through a conductor IE I, normally closed contacts I55 and conductor When relay I53 picks up it closes contacts Iii-3 to complete a circuit to relay I55 through conductors I5? and I58. Energization of relay opens the contacts I55 to interrupt the circuit to relay I55; at the same time, it closescontacts I to form a holding circuit which is formed under circumstances to be described later. Although contacts I55 and the switch I28 are opened immediately after relay I53 picks up, the is not (la-energized due to the fact that its contacts I53 close to form a holding circuit through conductor I59 and the normally closed contacts of switch 31.

When relay I53 is energized contacts I53 and I53 are closed. Closure of contacts I53 completes the circuit from the D. C. power supply lines I35 and I35 to the clutch solenoid 63 which 1 1 locks the carriage 4 to the chains 54. This means that the carriage is moved along in synchronism with the conveyor I and the tire tread 6. Closure of contacts I53 completes a circuit from conductor IE8 to conductor IBI and thence to the solenoid coil 52 which controls operation of the piston rod 30 in cylinder 29. At this time the slide 26 and cutting blade 25 are moved into cutting position alongside the tread. When the cutting blade 25 moves down into cutting position the lug 43 operates switch 44 to complete a circuit from conductor I60 to conductor I62 and thence to the Forward control coil on motor 32. Motor 32 operates to move frame I1 transverse- 1y of the conveyor to out a length of the tread. It should be noted that the switch 44 is provided withan additional set of contacts in the circuit to the clutch solenoid I22. These are opened during the cutting operation positively to prevent recycling of the clutch.

When the frame I1 reaches its limit of travel after cutting thetread the lug Ml engages the switch 31 to open the normally closed contacts in the conducting line I59. This breaks the holding circuit to relay I53 so that contacts I53 I52 and I53 are opened. Opening of contacts Iii releasesthe clutch 60 locking the carriage to the drive chains 54; opening of contacts I53 breaks the circuit to the Forward control coil of motor 32 thereby stopping operation of the motor driving frame I1. At the same time the circuit to solenoid 42 is interrupted which permits the piston .rod in cylinder 29 to return to normal position thereby withdrawing the cutting blade from alongside the thread.

Upon operation of switch 31 its normally open contacts close to complete a circuit through conductors I53 and I64 to a holding relay I55. Since the contacts of switch 31 are only momentarily held closed by the lug 40 a holding circuit is provided around these contacts. This holding circuit includes conductor I56, the closed contacts of switchfifi, conductor I51, the closed con tacts Hi5 which have been picked up by the relay IE.5,and the conductor I68. The contacts of switch 38 are closed due to the fact that the lug 4! carried by the frame I1 has moved away from the switch 38 upon the beginning of the cutting stroke thereby permitting it to return to normal position. When the cutter 25 and plate 25 return to normal position the lug 43 closes the switch 45 to complete a circuit to the Reverse control coil of motor 32; this drives the motor in a reverse direction so that the frame I1 is moved transversely back across the carriage 4. The circuit to the control coil is completed from power line I5I to conductor I56, the closed contacts of switch 38, a conductor I59, closed contacts I65 ofrelay I 55, conductor I 10, the closed contacts of switch 45, and thence through the Reverse control coil to the other power supply line I33.

In order to return the carriage 4 to initial position the contacts I65 which are closed by energization of relay I65, complete a circuit through conductor I1I to the solenoid 16 which operates air valve 16 to admit air to the cylinder 12 and 13 causing the pistons 14 and 15 to return the carriage. To keep the carriage return solenoid 16 energized irrespective of the position of the transversely moving frame I1 the contacts I65 of relay I55 have previously been closed to energize a holding coil I12 through conductors H3 and I14. When relay I12 picks up it closes contacts Il'2 to form a holding circuit around contacts I65 through conductors I15 and Ill. The relay I12 itself is provided with a holding circuit around the contacts I65 This circuit includes conductor I16, the normally closed contacts of switch 18, conductor I11 and the picked-up contacts I12". Thus solenoid 16 will continue to be energized irrespective of whether or not contacts H and I drop out by-de-energization of relay I65.

In the operation thus far described, the cutting machine has completed that portion of its cycle of operation in which the tread is cut, the frame I1 is being returned transversely of the carriage to its initial position by reverse operation of the motor 32, and the carriage '4 is being returned to initial position by the action of the air cylinders 12 and 13. Thus, in effect, a race is taking place between the frame I1 and the carriage 4 to see which one Will return to its initial position first. The winner of the race will depend upon certain variable factors such as the air pressure applied to the cylinders, the speed of the motor 32, and the adjustment and lubrication of the various moving parts. However, the electrical circuit is so arranged that it will be reset for another cutting operation irrespective of whether the frame I1 or carriage l returns to initial position first.

If it is assumed that the frame I! reaches its starting position first, then the lug 6% will close switch contacts 38 in the circuit to clutch solenoid I22 and it will open the normally closed contacts of switch 38 between conductors I56 and I61 in the holding circuit for relay IE5. As the relay is ole-energized contacts I65 open to interrupt the circuit through conductors I69 and I10 to the Reverse control coil of motor 32. lhis stops drive motor 32 thereby halting transverse movement of the frame I1 in position for the next cutting operation. Even though relay I65 drops out to open the contacts "55 and I55 the circuit to the solenoid 16 controlling the air pressure to cylinders 12 and 13 is not interrupted due to the fact that the holding relay I12 remains energized to maintain the circuit to solenoid 16 through conductors I15 and I.

As soon as the carriage 4 reaches its initial position it operates the switch 18 to close its contacts in the circuit to clutch solenoid I22 and open the circuit between conductors lit and I11 thereby interrupting the holding circuit to relay 512. This causes the relay to drop out to open contacts I12 and de-energizes the solenoid 16'. By this time the carriage will have returned to initial position so that the air pressure can be out oh by de-energization of solenoid 16. When the cutting blade was withdrawn from cutting position the lug 43 released the switch 44 which returned the contacts thereof to normally closed position in the circuit to the solenoid clutch 622. Thus all the relays in the circuit to solenoid E22 have been properly positioned for another cycle of operation of the single revolution clutch.

If, however, the situation is such that the carriage 4 returns to its initial position before the transversely moving frame I1 then the circuit operates in a somewhat different manner. When the carriage reaches its initial position it operates switch 18 to open the circuit to the holding coil I12; this opens the contacts I12 in the holding circuit around contacts I65. Relay I65 remains energized so that motor 32 con tinues to operate in a reverse direction until frame I1 returns to initial position at which point lug ii opens the normally closed contacts of switch 38. This interrupts the circuit to the Reverse control coil of motor 32. Since at the same time relay I55 drops out the contacts I65 open the circuit to the air pressure solenoid I6. It will thus be apparent that the power circuit is reset for another cutting operation irrespective of whether the cutter frame !I or carriage l first return to initial position.

In the event that the conveyor stops at the exact point where the arm I 25 maintains the switch I28 in closed position means is provided to permit the cutting blade to complete the cutting operation but which prevents the cutter from re-cycling in the event that switch I28 remains closed. This is the purpose of relay I55. In the normal situation, as when switch I28 is open at the completion of a cutting operation, lug Ml operates switch 37 to open the holding circuit through conductor I55 to relay I 53 so that contacts I55 open to stop operation of motor 32. When relay I53 drops out it also opens contacts I55 which had completed a circuit to relay I55. When relay I55 wasenergized it closed contacts I55 and opened contacts I55 thus if switch I28 is held closed a holding circuit for relay I55 is formed from line I5I through conductor I54, switch I28, a conductor I18 and contacts I55 to the coil of the relay and thence by conductor I58 to the other power supply line. As long as relay I55 is energized contacts I55 are opened so that relay I53 cannot be re-energized, once it is deenergized by operation of switch 31, to again initiate a cutting cycle. In this way the machine cannot be in anothe cutting operation as long as switch I28 is held closed.

During the completion of the cutting cycle, the timer has been driven through the clutch mechanism I I I to move the pointer 83 and cam arm 85 around the dial 82, the distance of travel depending upon the setting of switch 85 which corresponds with the length of tread to be out. When cam arm switch 85 it initiates another cutt ng cycle of the machine. To this end, momentary closure of switch 85 completes a circuit from power line I38 through a conductor I88, the closed contacts of switch 86, relay coil Isl, and conductor I82 to the other supply line I SI At the same time, a circuit is completed to relay I83 for a mirpose to be presently described. Contacts Ull of relay I 8| are closed to complete a circuit through conductor I84 to a holding relay Hi5, When relay I85 picks up, it closes contacts I55 to form a holding circuit through conductor I35 and normally closed contacts IZ so that when contacts I8! open as re ay I8! drops out, upon opening of switch 85, the circuit to relay I 85 will be maintained. When relay I85 operates to close contacts I85 a circuit is completed through conductor I8! to the other solenoid I I6 to shift the clutch mechanism throu h linkage I I4 to reverse the direction of rotation of the po nter 83 and cam arm 85. At the time that soleno d II is energized the opposing solenoid H5 is tie-energized due to the act t at relav I55 dropsout opening the circuit through contacts I45 relay I45 is de-energized by operation. of relay I 83 since the circuit through mnductors It? nd I58 is interru ted by opening of contacts ISR Thus, when switch 86 is actuated the direction of rotation of the cam arm 85 s re ersed by ener ization of solenoid I I5 and deenereization of so enoid H5. In a similar way hen switch I2! i closed to energize relay I42 the normally closed contacts I 43* open to interrupt the holding circuit through contacts I85 which holds in the relay I permitting it to drop out so that contacts I 85 open to ale-energize solenoid I55. This permits solenoid H5 to be energized in the manner already described.

When switch 86 is closed, a cutting cycle is initiated by closure of contacts I8! in the power circuit and which complete a circuit through conductor I88 to the solenoid I22 of the single revolution clutch. The clutch operates to initiate the cutting cycle heretofore described.

If it is desired to stop operation of the machine, a Stop switch I89 is operated to break the holding circuit through conductor I 90 to relay I31; this permits contacts I31 to open so that the auxiliary power supply line I38 no longer energizes the solenoids II 5, Ilia and associated relays. This stops operation of the timer by permitting the clutch mechanism to return to neutral position under the influence of the spring lost motion connection I 2' In certain instances, as when heavy truck tire treads are to be cut at random lengths, it is desirable to operate the cutting machine without utilizing the automatic timer, In such situations, a ll ianual cutting switch I 9i is provided in the control circuit for initiating a cutting operation. When switch I8! is depressed it closes a circuit through the closed contacts I52 of relay I92 to energize relay 193 through a conductor I94. This closes contacts mil in the power circuit to complete a circuit through conductor I95 to the solenoid I22 of the single revolution clutch. This initiates a cutting cycle in the manner already described. When the "Manual cutting switch I91 is used, the holding circuit to relay I3! is interrupted by opening of the normally closed contact of switch IQI so that it is impossible to energize the timer at this time. Similarly, when the automatic timer is bein used current will flow from the holding circuit of. conductor I95 through relay i to pick up relay so that contacts IsE are opened thereby prevent ng energization of relay !93. This means that it is imossible to interrupt the cycle of o erations by closing the "Manual cutting switch I 9!.

The cutting machine is one which. operates quickly and easily to sever lengths of tire tread as th tread moves along in a continuous sheet with. the conv yor I. The len th of movement of t e cuttinc hlade may be varied at will to accommodate treads oi difierent widths. Also, the control arm 85! may be set to any chosen position on dial 32 and thus automatically determine the length of tread to be cut. Inasmuch as the carria e clutch G8 and the single revolution clutch 52% both lock in at zero load there i no slip age in the clutch mechanisms so that it is possible to cut the tread length accurately.

Another advantage of my invention is the fact that the distance the carriage t moves along with the conveyor belt. i. e., the time during which the carriage is locked to the chains 5 will vary in accordance with the width of the tire tread being out: also the distance and time will vary in acc rda ce with the speed at which the cut is made. This means that if a wide heavy tread is being cut that it will take the cutting blade an additional length of time to sever the trea Nevertheless. the carriage iwill rnove along in synchroni m with the conveyor I for this greater length of time. This int rlocking control is obtained by utilizing the contacts I55 to operate the pressure solenoid I5 to control the carriage return, the contacts, in turn, being actuated when the cutting frame I! completes a cutting 15 operation in a position such that the lug Mi closes the switch 3?. As already mentioned, the limit switci es and 33 are positioned in accordance with the width of the tread being cut.

Also, it will be apparent that the operation of the cutting machine is automatically adjusted in accordance with any variation in the speed of travel of the conveyor belt the speed of the conveyor being determined by the rate at which the tread stock is extruded. This is true because the carriage 4 travels at the same speed as the conveyor belt I so that the cutting operation of blade 2; is completed irrespective of the conveyor speed. Since the timer is driven by gearing from the conveyor it too operates directly in accordance with the speed of the conveyor. No adjust-merit of the timer is required to compensate for va "iations in conveyor speed.

Having thus described my invention, what I claim and desire to protect by Letters Patent is:

1. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a carriage moveable with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the cutin. an inclined position on the third. named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, and means for moving the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed with tapered edges.

2. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting the moving strip material, a carriage moveable with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the cutter in an inclined position on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, means for moving the second nam d carriage transversely or" the conveyor, whereby the st 'i material is severed with tapered edges, means for retracting the cutter from cutting position with the strip material, and means for returning the second named carriage to its original position transversely of the conveyor.

3. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a chain moveable with the conveyor, a carriage, means for lock ing the carriage with the chain for movement with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the out ter in position on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, and means for moving the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed.

4. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a carriage, means for gradually initiating movement of the carriage with the conveyor, a chain moveable with the conveyor, means for locking the carriage with the chain for moving the carriage with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage,

16 means for supporting the cutter on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, and means for moving the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed.

5. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a carriage moveable with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the cutter in an inclined position on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, means for moving the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed with tapered edges, measuring means for determining the distance between successive cuts, said measuring means comprising a fixed electrical switch and an adjustable electrical switch, a member driven from the conveyor and adaptable for engagement with said switches, and means operable by actuating of one or" said switches for initiating movement of said first named carriage.

6. An apparatus for cutting strip material com prising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a carriage moveable with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the cutter on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, means for moving the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed, and means located in the path of the second named carriage for limiting the extent of transverse movement of the second named carriage.

'7. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a carriage moveable with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the cutter on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, means for moving the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed, and means operated by movement of the second named carriage for causing retraction of the cutte' from its cutting position with the strip material.

8. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a carriage moveable with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely oi the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the cutter in an inclined position on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, means for moving the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed with tapered edges, and means located in the path of the second named carriage for limiting the extent of transverse movement of the second named carriage and for initiating reverse movement of the second named carriage to its original starting position.

9. An apparatus for cutting strip material comprising a cutter, a conveyor for supporting and moving strip material, a chain moveable with the conveyor, a carriage, means for locking the carriage with the chain for moving the carriage with the conveyor, a second carriage moveable transversely of the first named carriage, a third carriage moveable longitudinally of the second named carriage, means for supporting the cutter in an inclined position on the third named carriage, means for advancing the cutter into cutting position with the strip material, means for mov ing the second named carriage transversely of the conveyor, whereby the strip material is severed with tapered edges, and means operated by movement of the second named carriage for limiting the extent of transverse movement of the second named carriage and for releasing the locking means between the chain and the'first named carriage.

10. Apparatus for cutting strip material travel ing with a conveyor comprising, in combination, a moveable carriage, a cutting mechanism moveable transversely on said carriage, means for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the conveyor to cut the material, means to connect the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith during operation of the cutting mechanism and to disconnect the carriage after the cutting operation, and means for withdrawing the cutting mechanism from the material and returning it across the material to initial position without cutting the material.

11. Apparatus for cutting strip material traveling with a conveyor comprising, in combination, a carriage adapted to be moved from initial position with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism transversely on said carriage, means for moving said cutting mechanism from initial position on one side of the material transversely of the material to the other side to effect a cutting stroke, means to move the carriage at conveyor speed during operation of the cutting mechanism, means to move said cutting mechanism away from cutting position with respect to the strip material, and means to return the carriage and cutting mechanism to initial positions upon completion of the cutting stroke to position them for the next succeeding cutting cycle.

12. Apparatus for lengths of strip material traveling with a conveyor comprising, in combination, a device settable in accordance with the length of the material to be cut, a carriage moveable with and adapted to be driven by the conveyor, a cutting mechanism on said carriage moveable across the material, means controlled by said device for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to eiTect a cut therethrough, means to connect the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith during operation of the cutting mechanism and means to release the carriage from the conveyor upon completion of the cutting stroke.

13. Apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a conveyor comprising, in combination, a carriage moveable and driven by the conveyor, a cutting mechanism on said carriage moveable across the material, control means for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to effect a cut therethrough and for simultaneously connecting the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith during the cutting operation, and means operable in accordance with the speed of cutting predetermined the conveyor to efiect operation of said control means for cutting a strip of material.

14. Apparatus for cutting lengths of a moving strip of material comprising, in combination, a movable supporting carriage, a cutting mechanism moveable transversely on said carriage, means for moving said cutting mechanism from one side of the material transversely thereof to the other side to effect a cutting stroke, means to move the carriage parallel to and at the speed of movement of the material during movement of the cutting mechanism, means to move said cutting mechanism out of cutting position with respect to the strip material, means to return said cutting mechanism to said one side of the strip material without cutting therethrough, and means to return the carriage to initial position upon completion of the cutting stroke.

15. Apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths from continuously moving strip material comprising, in combination, a devicesettable in accordance with the length of the material to be cut, a movable supporting carriage, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, means controlled by said device for moving said cutting mechanism from one side of the material transversely thereof to the other side to effect a cut therethrough, means to move the carriage at the speed of the strip material during operation "of the cutting mechanism, means to move said cutting mechanism out of cutting position with respect to the strip material, means to return said cutting mechanism to said one side of the strip material without cutting therethrough, and means to return the carriage to initial position upon completion of the cutting stroke.

16. Apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a moving conveyor comprising, in combination, a car riage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism on said carriage moveable across the material, means for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to eiTect a cut therethrough and for simultaneously connecting the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith during the cutting operation, a timing mechanism including spaced switches for controlling said means, the spacing of the switches being adjustable in accordance with the length of material to be cut, and means moveable in accordance with the speed of the conveyor for operating said switches.

17. Apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a moveable conveyor comprising, in combination, a car-' riage adapted to be moved with the conveyor; a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, means for moving said cutting mechanism trans.- versely of the material to eiiect a cutting stroke, means to move the carriage at conveyor speed during operation of the cutting mechanism, a timing mechanism including spaced switches for controlling both of said means, the spacing of said switches being adjustable in accordance with the length of material to be cut, means moveable in accordance with the speed of the conveyor for operating said switches, and means to return the carriage to initial position upon completion of the cutting stroke.

18. In apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a c'on-' veyor, a timing or measuring mechanism includ-' ing a plurality of electric switches spaced apart a distance depending upon the length of material to be cut, a switch operating member moveable back and forth between said switches, a clutch mechanism for moving said member in either direction and means for driving such clutch mechanism in accordance with the speed of the conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, and means controlled by said switches for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the strip material to sever a length thereof.

19. In apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a conveyor, a timing or measuring mechanism including a plurality of electric switches spaced apart a distance depending upon the length of the material to be cut, a switch operating member moveable back and forth between said switches to operate the same means operable in accordance with the speed of the conveyor to move said memher back and forth to operate said switches, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, means to move the carriage at conveyor speed during operation of the cutting mechanism and means controlled by said switches for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to sever a length thereof.

20. In apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a conveyor, a timing or measuring mechanism including a plurality of electric switches spaced apart a distance depending upon the length of material to be cut, a switch operating member moveable back and forth between said switches, a clutch mechanism for moving said member in either direction, and means for driving said clutch mechanism in accordance with the speed of the conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, means controlled by said switches for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to effect a cut therethrough and means controlled by said switches for operating said clutch mechanism to reverse the direction of movement of said switch operating member.

21. In apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a conveyor, a timing or measuring mechanism including a plurality of switches spaced apart a distance depending upon the length of material to be cut, a switch operating member moveable back and forth between said switches, a clutch mechanism for moving said member in either direction, and means for driving said clutch mechanism in accordance with the speed of the conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, means controlled by one of said switches for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to effect a cut therethrough and for simultaneously moving the carriage at the speed of the conveyor during the cutting operation, means to return the carriage to initial position upon completion of the cutting stroke and means controlled by the other of said switches for operating said clutch mechanism to reverse the direction of movement of said operating member.

22. In apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a conveyor, a plurality of switches adjustable in accordance with the length of material to be cut, a reversible mechanism for operating said switches in sequence and being operable in accordance with the speed of the conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage,

means controlled by one of said switches for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to eifect a cut therethrough and simultaneously to move the carriage at the speed of the conveyor during the cutting operation, means to return the carriage to initial position upon completion of the cutting stroke and mean controlled by the other of said switches to operate said reversible mechanism.

23. In apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material travelling with a conveyor, a plurality of switches adjustable in accordance with the length of material to be cut, a reversible mechanism including an arm for op erating said switches in sequence, means for operating said mechanism in accordance with the speed of the conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, means responsive to operation of one of said switches by movement of said arm in one direction to connect the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith, means controlled by said one switch for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to effect a cut therethrough, means to return the carriage to initial position upon completion of the cutting stroke and means controlled by the other of said switches to reverse the direction of movement of said arm.

24. In apparatus for cutting predetermined lengths of strip material traveling with a conveyor, a plurality of electric switches spaced apart a distance depending upon the length of material to be cut, a pivoted arm for operating said switches, a reversible clutch mechanism for moving said arm in either direction to engage one or the other of said switches, means for driving said clutch mechanism in accordance with the speed of the conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, and means controlled by one or the other of said switches for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to sever a length thereof.

25. In apparatus for cutting strip material traveling with a conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, means to accelerate movement of said carriage from a position of rest to full conveyor speed, a clutch mechanism to connect the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith, means controlled by said first mentioned means to actuate said clutch mechanism after the carriage has reached full speed and means for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to sever a length thereof.

26. In apparatus for cutting strip material traveling with a conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, a clutch mechanism moveable at conveyor speed and having a portion for engaging said carriage, means for operating said clutch mechanism whereby said portion engages said carriage to accelerate it from a posilion of rest to full conveyor speed a second clutch mechanism adapted to connect the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith, means responsive to operation of said first mentioned clutch mechanism to actuate said second clutch mechanism after the carriage has reached full speed, and means for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to sever a length thereof.

27. In apparatus for cutting strip material 21 traveling with a conveyor, a carriage adapted to be moved with the conveyor, a cutting mechanism moveable on said carriage, a clutch mechanism moveable at conveyor speed and having a rotating arm for engaging said carriage, means 5 for operating said clutch mechanism whereby said arm engages said carriage to accelerate it from a position of rest to full conveyor speed, a second clutch mechanism to connect the carriage to the conveyor for movement therewith, means responsive to movement of said arm to actuate said second clutch mechanism after the carriage has reached full speed, and means for moving said cutting mechanism transversely of the material to sever a length thereof.

EDMOND GODAT.

REFERENCES CITED The following references are of record in the file of this patent:

UNITED STATES PATENTS m Number Name Date 1,987,409 Moore Jan. 8, 1935 2,086,374 Wikle July 6, 1937 2,273,533 Mather Feb. 17, 1942 

